Re-taking the GMAT after 4 years.

Hi DjWater,

Since you last studied for the GMAT over 4 years ago, some aspects of the Exam have changed since you last took it. First, both the Quant and Verbal sections are now SHORTER (less time and fewer questions per section relative to the version of the GMAT you took several years ago). Second, there is now an option to choose the order of the sections (from among 3 options). Third, since Covid-19 has made it a bit more complicated to take the GMAT at a Test Center, there is an option to take it Online; the 'format' of the At-home GMAT is "fixed" though (Quant, then Verbal - with no break in-between, then an optional 5-minute break, then IR, with NO AWA section). Having to take Quant and Verbal in one sitting is challenging for many GMATers (especially if you've been taking your CATs with an 8-minute break between sections).

If you're looking to restart your studies, the logical first step would be to take a practice CAT/mock in the current format. You can access 2 for free at www.mba.com (and they come with some additional practice materials). If you want to do a little studying first, so that you can re-familiarize yourself with the basic content and question types, then that's okay - but you shouldn't wait too long to take that initial CAT.

Before I can offer you any additional advice for your studies, it would help if you could provide a bit more information on your timeline and your goals:

1) What study materials - if any - do you currently have access to?
2) What is your overall goal score?
3) When are you planning to apply to Business School and what Schools are you planning to apply to?

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich